Sr. M. Karen O'Kelly, OP

Sr. M. Karen O'Kelly, OP, 79, died Friday, March 6, 2009 at the Dominican Sisters Motherhouse, Springfield. Sr. M. Karen was born to Hulda Larson and Patrick Joseph O'Kelly in Chicago, IL. She joined the Dominican Sisters in 1948. Sister taught elementary students before becoming principal of St. Joseph School, Bradley, IL, and Our Lady of Grace School, Chicago. Later she was appointed the Diocesan Director of Education, Rockford, IL. From 1989-93 she served on the Dominican Sisters General Council. In 1993 Sr. M. Karen went to Jackson, MS, and served as Assistant Superintendent of Catholic Schools. Since 2003 she served in community support services and as administrative assistant to the Director of Associates. Sr. M. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, her sister Eileen and brother Patrick. She is survived by her sisters Joan McLoughlin and Lillian Cummings, several nieces and nephews and her Dominican Sisters with whom she lived and ministered for 61 years. Visitation will be from 3:30-7:00 p.m. Sunday, March 8, 2009 at Sacred Heart Convent Motherhouse, 1237 W. Monroe, Springfield. A vigil service will take place at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be held at Sacred Heart Convent at 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 9, 2009 with Rev. Peter Witchousky, OP, presiding. The Final Commendation and Burial Service will take place following the Mass. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.